By Amber Roman
03 Nov 2023, 17:31 PM EDT
Five California counties have taken additional steps to combat the spread of respiratory illnesses this year. With the flu season imminent and fear of a “tripledemic” of RSV, influenza and COVID-19, have implemented mask mandates in specific areas as a preventive measure.
The news reported by KABC-TV News of Los Angeles explains that the counties of Alameda, San Mateo, Contra Costa and Sonoma have established the obligation for staff members in hospitals and doctors’ offices to wear masks when interacting with patients.
Additionally, Santa Clara County has imposed additional measures, requiring both patients and residents of long-term care hospitals to wear face coverings, along with healthcare providers and staff.
Dr. Sarah Rudman, deputy health director for Santa Clara County, explained the rationale behind these measures, stating: “The order in Santa Clara County requires the use of masks for all people entering a health care facility. And that’s because we’re all at risk during this winter virus season. “We must all play a role in protecting ourselves and each other.”
Vaccine reinforcement
These measures are in addition to recommendations on the use of masks implemented in other California counties, such as Los Angeles, Orange and Ventura. In Los Angeles County, All healthcare workers who have not received the COVID-19 vaccine booster are currently required to Wear masks when interacting with patients.
For its part, San Bernardino County “strongly recommends” that people wear masks in indoor public settings at all times.
Dr. Karen Smith, acting health officer for Sonoma County, noted that there has been “incredible pushback” against previous attempts to require masks in the region. However, supporters of the rule argue that These measures are necessary to prevent the uncontrolled spread of respiratory diseases.especially in the context of the winter season and the coexistence of several viruses.
In this sense, a California hospital worker, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed his support for mask mandates. “We’re over it,” he told KTVU-TV News in Oakland, California. “Our patients still do not know if they come with [COVID-19]but that doesn’t scare me.”
Mask mandates in these counties will remain in effect until at least March 2024, according to the KABC report. As flu season continues and uncertainty surrounding the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic continues, California health authorities are taking steps to ensure the safety of residents and medical staff in their healthcare facilities.
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